Overview
Endometriosis is a common condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside it, on the ovaries, tubes and other pelvic organs. Each month this tissue bleeds like a period but has no way to leave the body, causing inflammation, pain and scarring. It leads to painful, often heavy periods, pelvic pain and, for some, difficulty conceiving. It is frequently under-recognised. There is no simple cure, but pain relief, hormonal treatments and surgery can control symptoms and help fertility.
Symptoms
- Painful periods that can be severe
- Chronic pelvic or lower-belly pain
- Pain during or after intercourse
- Heavy or irregular periods
- Difficulty conceiving, and pain with bowel movements or urination during periods
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for severe period pain, ongoing pelvic pain, pain during sex, or difficulty conceiving — do not accept disabling period pain as normal.
Causes
The exact cause is unclear; womb-like tissue grows outside the womb, influenced by hormones, immune factors and a genetic tendency.